New RSGV Cooperation for West Africa

The German Sparkassenstiftung for International Cooperation (DSIK) and the Rhenish Savings Banks and Giro Association (RSGV) have renewed their successful collaboration in West Africa. By signing a new cooperation agreement, both institutions are continuing their joint commitment to the sustainable development of the financial sector in West Africa through the end of 2028.

At the signing of the cooperation agreement for the West Africa Regional Project (from left to right): Niclaus Bergmann, Managing Director of DSIK; Helmut Schleweis, Chairman of the DSIK Board; Michael Breuer, President of RSGV; and Martina Wolf, Coordinator of Cooperation in the RSGV President’s Office.

The agreement supports the German Sparkassenstiftung for International Cooperation and the regional project funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), entitled: “Digital Transformation and Sustainable Financing Models: Strengthening Microfinance Institutions and Credit Unions to Promote MSMEs, Women, and Youth in West Africa.” The project is being implemented in Ghana, The Gambia, Sierra Leone, and Senegal and aims to sustainably strengthen the competitiveness of microfinance institutions and credit unions. A particular focus is placed on the partner country Ghana.

A Proven Partnership for Sustainable Development

RSGV has been supporting the work of the German Sparkassenstiftung for several years and contributes its expertise from the German Savings Banks Finance Group to project activities. Under the new agreement, the association will continue to support the project through technical advisory services, the deployment of experts, the hosting of delegation visits, and the exchange of knowledge and experience.

In addition, cooperation between savings banks within the RSGV region and partner institutions in West Africa will be further intensified. Planned activities include internships and study visits, technical exchanges, and joint networking formats.

Focus on Digitalization and Financial Inclusion

The regional project focuses on three key areas of action: the digitalization of processes and financial services, the promotion of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), and improving financial inclusion for women and young people.

Through the introduction of digital solutions, microfinance institutions and credit unions will be able to modernize their services and expand their reach. At the same time, new financing models will be developed to improve MSMEs’ access to financial services and create economic opportunities for women and young people.

The extended cooperation agreement provides the foundation for jointly advancing these objectives over the coming years and making a lasting contribution to the economic and social development of West Africa.

From left: Martina Wolf (RSGV), Helmut Schleweis (DSIK), Janar Chynbaeva (DSIK), Michael Breuer (RSGV), and Niclaus Bergmann (DSIK).

Find out more about the project here.